Benign Capillary Hemangioma

Benign Capillary Hemangioma

Article
Skin Care
Diseases & Conditions
+1
Contributed byKrish Tangella MD, MBAOct 28, 2019

What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

  • Capillary Hemangioma
  • Strawberry Birthmark

What is Benign Capillary Hemangioma? (Definition/Background Information)

  • Hemangiomas are benign malformation of blood vessels that can occur in a number of tissues such as the brain, kidney, liver, lung, skin, and nasal cavity
  • Benign Capillary Hemangioma is one of the most common type of hemangioma that can be either present from birth (congenital origin) or develop sometime later
  • These are benign growths composed of small blood vessels that occur on skin tissues or may be deep in the tissues. They are typically small, red papules, which may rupture and bleed if injured
  • The cause for development of Benign Capillary Hemangioma is not yet well understood. Some studies though, show a genetic component
  • While Capillary Hemangiomas are generally asymptomatic, they may be treated for cosmetic purposes. The treatment options include removal of the tumor through surgery
  • Currently there are no specific methods or preventative techniques to avoid the formation of Benign Capillary Hemangiomas

Who gets Benign Capillary Hemangioma? (Age and Sex Distribution)

  • Benign Capillary Hemangiomas can occur at any age; they may even be present at birth
  • Both males and females are affected; though females are affected more than males
  • It may be observed in individuals of all races and ethnic backgrounds across the world

What are the Risk Factors for Benign Capillary Hemangioma? (Predisposing Factors)

The following risk factors contribute to Benign Capillary Hemangioma development:

  • Individuals with a positive family history are more likely to develop the condition
  • If the hemangiomas occur on the sacral (on the spine) areas in infants, then these may be associated with congenital defects such as spinal malformation
  • Premature babies

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Benign Capillary Hemangioma? (Etiology)

  • The exact cause for development of Benign Capillary Hemangioma is unknown
  • In case of a positive family history, there may be genetic mutations in chromosome 5
  • Some are known to be associated with congenital spinal defects

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Benign Capillary Hemangioma?

Benign Capillary Hemangiomas are generally asymptomatic and do not present any signs and symptoms.

  • When these are present from birth, they can grow in size and stabilize over a period of time. They may even start to disappear later
  • Benign Capillary Hemangiomas are small (normally) papules that may be present anywhere on the body, at a deep or superficial location; they may be occasionally large
  • Superficial hemangiomas may appear as red macules on the skin
  • Sometimes, these benign tumors may rupture and bleed, if they are injured

How is Benign Capillary Hemangioma Diagnosed?

A diagnosis for Benign Capillary Hemangioma includes evaluating the clinical history (physical exam) and a thorough family history. Other tools to help diagnose the condition may include:

  • A visual assessment by the physician can help diagnose the condition
  • CT and MRI scan of the affected region: Deep-seated tumors may be incidentally discovered during imaging for other reasons
  • If necessary, skin biopsies may be performed to rule-out other conditions

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Benign Capillary Hemangioma?

The only significant complication of Benign Capillary Hemangioma is bleeding from the hemangioma following an injury. In some individuals, it may present cosmetic (appearance) issues.

How is Benign Capillary Hemangioma Treated?

Benign Capillary Hemangiomas are generally asymptomatic and therefore may not require any treatment. Some may even disappear completely. In case of frequent bleeding or cosmetic issues related to physical appearance, individuals may choose to remove them.

Procedures for removing a Capillary Hemangioma may include:

  • Burning (electrosurgery/cautery)
  • Freezing (cryotherapy)
  • Laser excision
  • Surgical excision

How can Benign Capillary Hemangioma be Prevented?

  • Currently there are no specific methods or preventative techniques for the formation of Benign Capillary Hemangiomas. The condition may be caused by genetic factors
  • If there is a family history of the condition, then genetic counseling will help assess risks, before planning for a child
  • Active research is currently being performed to explore the possibilities for treatment and prevention of inherited and acquired genetic conditions such as Capillary Hemangiomas

What is the Prognosis of Benign Capillary Hemangioma? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

  • Benign Capillary Hemangiomas are noncancerous and are generally asymptomatic; some are known to even disappear spontaneously after a period of time (if they are present at birth or appear immediately after)
  • Complications leading to further or future health concerns are generally rare
  • Removal of the hemangioma does not usually lead to scarring

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Benign Capillary Hemangioma:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

https://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/cancer/

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Krish Tangella MD, MBA picture
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Krish Tangella MD, MBA

Pathology, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team

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